This new service will draw on SAMH’s expertise; providing a customised approach to each GP Practice with each link worker having an area of focus, such as education or older people’s services.

Billy Watson, Chief Executive, SAMH said:

“This new Link Worker service is great news for the people of Aberdeen which will see patients who are seeking help and support in their GP surgery gain quicker access to a wider range of community support and resources which hopefully will lead to improved outcomes for people.

“SAMH is delighted to be working with Aberdeen Health and Social Care Partnership in delivering this innovative new programme.

“Aberdeen HSCP is taking a significant lead in this area, creating the largest Link Worker programme of its kind in Scotland by ensuring every GP practice in Aberdeen will have access to a Link Worker.

“We look forward to working with GPs, patients and the wider community to bring the link worker programme to fruition.”